The First Arte: Living gallery of luxury and culture in the Heart of Rome
Nestled in the heart of Rome and inaugurated in 2011, The First Arte is the cornerstone of The First Urban Resort collection, an innovative concept developed under The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts brand. Housed in a historic 19th-century palazzo on Via del Vantaggio 14, this five-star property masterfully blends refined hospitality with artistic expression, positioning itself as both a luxurious retreat and a cultural landmark. From its inception, the hotel has redefined what it means to experience Rome, offering guests more than just comfort—it offers a sense of place, history, and art.
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Perfectly situated a short stroll from Rome’s famed Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, The First Arte enjoys one of the city’s most coveted locations. It is also within walking distance of its sister properties—The First Dolce and The First Musica—making it central to the broader First Urban Resort vision.
In 2024, the hotel underwent an extensive renovation led by its original designers, Studio Marincola. The updated design enhances the building’s historical character with modern elegance, featuring open, airy interiors that feel both contemporary and timeless, ideal for guests seeking serenity in the midst of the Eternal City’s vibrancy.
At its core, The First Arte is more than a hotel: it’s a living gallery. Over 200 pieces of contemporary Italian art are thoughtfully placed throughout the property, creating an immersive visual experience from the lobby to the guestrooms. Art is not confined to one space—it lives throughout the building, transforming the hotel into a curated cultural journey. This dedication to art makes every visit a unique dialogue between guests and the evolving world of Italian creativity.
Each of the hotel’s 26 guestrooms and suites is a haven of understated luxury. Designed with a harmonious blend of cream-colored boiserie, natural oak wood, and bold blue velvet accents, the rooms offer a quiet elegance. Large windows open onto a peaceful internal courtyard, inviting natural light into the living spaces. Marble bathrooms, king-sized beds, and, in some cases, private terraces with jacuzzis, reflect the hotel’s commitment to indulgent comfort and intimate sophistication.
The First Arte also delights epicureans with its culinary offerings. The AcquaLounge on the first floor serves as a chic venue for relaxed meetings and gatherings, while the adjacent Acquolina restaurant holds a Michelin star under the direction of celebrated Chef Daniele Lippi.
Here, guests are treated to a bold and creative interpretation of seafood cuisine. Meanwhile, the rooftop Acquaroof Terrazza Molinari offers handcrafted cocktails and refined dishes set against breathtaking panoramic views—an ideal setting for a sunset aperitivo or romantic dinner.
To further connect guests with the soul of the city, The First Arte offers a range of Curated Journeys designed to immerse visitors in Roman life. These personalized experiences range from culinary adventures and cooking classes to private gallery tours and behind-the-scenes glimpses of Rome’s hidden historical treasures. Each journey is tailored to reflect the guest’s interests, ensuring a deeply personal and enriching stay.
Environmental consciousness is woven into the fabric of The First Arte’s philosophy. The hotel proudly adheres to a plastic-free policy, employs recycled materials across its interiors, and adopts energy-efficient systems. Sustainable gastronomy, waste reduction, and community involvement—such as its annual Christmas lunch for a local homeless shelter—demonstrate a holistic commitment to both ecological responsibility and social engagement.
As a member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. collection, The First Arte benefits from exclusive affiliations with elite travel networks including Virtuoso and American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts. These partnerships reinforce its status as a global luxury destination.
When paired with the unified service offerings of The First Dolce and The First Musica, The First Arte becomes a cornerstone of a new urban resort concept—one that allows guests to explore Rome across three complementary properties, seamlessly blending cultural discovery with uncompromising elegance.
